Social theory is a framework for understanding the complexities of social life, encompassing a variety of ideas and perspectives that analyze the structures, dynamics, and changes within societies. It explores how social institutions, norms, and relationships shape individual behavior and collective experiences, while also examining the interplay between agency and structure. By addressing issues such as power, inequality, identity, and social change, social theory provides valuable insights into the fu nctioning of societies and the lived realities of individuals. It draws on the work of influential theorists like Karl Marx, Max Weber, and Emile Durkheim, and continues to evolve in response to contemporary social issues.